Tuition Tuesday: Best Is THE Standard

For me, today is my second day of Spring Break. While I could easily stay at home, refuse to do homework, and catch up on television, I’ve decided to recommit to my dreams. As some of my mentors say, I want to “uplevel” my goals.

On SportsCenter last week, they had a segment where they toured the practice facility for Clemson University’s football team. All I could see was a sign that read: “Best is the standard.” Although that can mean different things to different people, I interpret it simply as “give it all you got”. It doesn’t matter what the results may hold, it’s about the quality of effort that counts.

The majority of people that set goals at the start of 2014 have officially given up. Best is no longer their standard. While some probably have stopped for legitimate reasons, most have quit because they’ve lost their desire. The momentum when the clock struck 12:00 a.m. on January 1st has vanished.

With the last few months of the school year ahead, what do you need to do to finish the school year strong?

This week, I’d like you to write three things you’d like to accomplish before the school year is over. Then, I want you to list everything you’ll need to help you reach those goals. Having your goals written down in conjunction with knowing that best is the standard, will help you get to success faster.

Our scholarships this week are a great way of working towards your college goals. Check them out:

Advice to Your High School Self Scholarship: If you’re a student that is already enrolled at a college or university or have just graduated from college (Classes of 2012, 2013, or 2014), this scholarship is for you. All you have to do is take a quick quiz, then give your best advice about college. That’s it.
Award: $5,000
Deadline: March 31st

Superpower Scholarship: This scholarship is pretty cool. Anyone ages 13 years and older, can create a short answer describing which superhero or villain they would switch places with for a day and why.
Award: $2,500
Deadline: March 31st

College JumpStart Scholarship: Could $1,500 help you pay for college? This scholarship is open to 10th-12th graders, college students, and non-traditional students. Just tell them about your goals. (Hint: Use this week’s “Best Is THE Standard” post for inspiration). Award: $1,500
Deadline: April 15th

AMVETS Scholarship: Is someone in your family a veteran and/or active duty military member? You could receive a $1,000 scholarship for 4 years! (Please note: Children and grandchildren of deceased veterans are also eligible).
Award: $1,000-$4,000
Deadline: April 30th

As you go finish up the rest of the week, I want you to remember that as long as you give it your all…you’re already a winner.

The Commit Partnership helps drive student achievement in Dallas County from cradle to career by leveraging data, community expertise and collaboration to measure what matters, identify effective practices and spread what works.